PhD position within synthesis of nanoparticles for solid oxide fuel cells (Denmark)

DTU Energy Conversion at the Technical University of Denmark offers a PhD scholarship in the synthesis of nano materials for energy conversion devices. The PhD position is financed by the Independent Research Council for Technology and Production (FTP).

The project (Pro-eco) focuses on environmental friendly synthesis of ceramic nano-particles for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) using continuous hydrothermal synthesis. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are all solid state devices that via an electrochemical process can convert chemical energy, in the form of, e.g., natural gas, hydrogen or biogas into electricity and heat. The electrical efficiency of the process is high. Moreover the process is reversible and the same cells can be utilized to convert electricity to chemical energy – a characteristic that can become very important in a future energy system with a larger fraction of fluctuating power production (e.g. from wind turbines or solar cells) as it provide a means to store energy.

Preparing the electrocatalysts for the cells by hydrothermal synthesis not only offers an environmentally friendly and up-scalable synthesis route but also has the potential to improve electrode performance and thereby to improve the competitiveness of the technology.

Responsibilities and tasks
The candidate will be working with all aspects of hydrothermal synthesis, characterization and processing of inorganic materials for SOFCs. The synthesized materials will be used in electrodes and tested in full SOFCs.

QualificationsCandidates should have a master’s degree in chemical engineering, chemistry or similar. Further preferred qualifications are:

Experience with inorganic synthesis and materials characterization

Very good communication skills in English, both spoken and written

Skills in hydrothermal synthesis and/or rheology are further advantageous

Approval and enrolmentThe scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.

We offerThe Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world. We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment termsThe salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.

The place of employment will be the DTU Risø Campus near Roskilde.

Further informationFurther information may be obtained on the project website www.proeco.dk and from Researcher Ragnar Kiebach, woki@dtu.dk or from Senior Researcher Poul Norby, pnor@dtu.dk

Please do not send applications to this e-mail address, instead apply online as described below.

Application
We must have your online application by 20 January 2014.

Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link « Apply online, » fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file.

DTU Energy Conversion is focusing on functional materials and their application in sustainable energy technology. Our research areas include fuel cells, electrolysis, solar cells, magnetic refrigeration, superconductivity and thermoelectrics. Additional information about the department can be found on www.ecs.dtu.dk

DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,000 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 9,000 students are educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies.